Expanding Fresh Food Access in Monterey County: A Customer Spotlight
Access to fresh, nutritious food should not be a privilege—it should be a right. That belief is at the core of our mission at The Farmers’ Truck, and it’s a mission we share with Food Bank for Monterey County. Since 2022, this incredible organization has been using a Farmers’ Truck mobile market to bring fresh produce directly to communities across Monterey County, ensuring that families, farmworkers, seniors, and veterans have access to the nutritious food they need.
A Mobile Market Serving the Community
The Mobile Produce Truck is a full-service farmers’ market on wheels. It's designed to reach communities that need fresh food the most. This innovative mobile market visits schools, libraries, wellness centers, senior living facilities, and veteran gatherings across Monterey County. With support from local organic farmers and agricultural companies, the mobile market provides an ever-changing selection of fresh, seasonal produce tailored to the needs of each community it serves.
Unlike traditional food distribution programs, this mobile market allows families to select the fruits and vegetables they prefer, rather than receiving pre-packed bags. This dignity-first approach gives people greater control over their food choices, making healthy eating more accessible and sustainable.
Supporting Families with Fresh Food
Another key initiative is the Family Market Program, which runs from April through October. This program provides fresh produce and dairy goods in a setting that mimics a farmers’ market—but everything is free. Through the Farm to Family program, the Food Bank sources produce from across California, ensuring a consistent and diverse selection of fresh produce.
This initiative has had a profound impact. 98% of Family Market recipients report eating more fruits and vegetables thanks to the program. In addition to providing food, the Family Market serves as a hub for nutrition education and outreach, connecting residents with resources like Food Stamps and other human services programs.
Meeting Farmworkers Where They Are
Monterey County is home to some of the hardest-working farmers and farmworkers in the country. However, many of these workers face food insecurity due to long work hours, economic stress, and limited access to grocery stores.
The Farmworker Mobile Pantries address this issue by bringing fresh produce directly to farmworkers at convenient locations. By eliminating barriers to food access, this initiative ensures that those who grow our food can also enjoy its benefits.
A Shared Commitment to Fresh Food Access
At The Farmers’ Truck, we believe that mobile markets are a vital tool for expanding fresh food access. Our partnership with this organization in Monterey County exemplifies the power of mobile food distribution in bridging the gap between local farms and the communities they serve.
By delivering fresh food directly to those who need it most, mobile markets are redefining food security in California. We are proud to support this initiative with a mobile market that is helping to make fresh food accessible.
Looking Ahead
Expanding fresh food access requires innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to serving communities where they are. The work being done in Monterey County is proof that mobile markets can transform food access, empowering families to make healthier choices.
If you’re interested in launching or expanding a mobile market in your community, The Farmers’ Truck is here to help. Together, we can build a future where fresh, healthy food is within reach for all.
Learn more about how mobile markets are transforming food access.